Schumacher's big pay day

Returning seven-time Formula One world champion Michael Schumacher is to get one million euro (£850,000) per race, according to reports from Germany.

Schumacher already gets around five million euro (£4.25m) per year from Ferrari in his non-driving advisory role and this is set to be extended beyond the end of 2009.

In addition to the one million euro for every race, Schumacher is set to pick the same amount of money again as a bonus for every victory he manages.

Schumacher says he has already lost three kilos as he continues to prepare for his return to grand prix action in Spain.

“I'm currently in the midst of my preparations for the upcoming race,” Schumacher wrote on his website. "I already lost three kilograms even if it is also important to me to build up muscles. So all in all, the practice works pretty well.

"I only have to admit that my neck pinches a bit. We have to get a grip on that as health has priority - that's the clear arrangement made with Ferrari and, by the way, with my wife, too.

"It's on! I accepted the challenge. And as you all know, I really love challenges. It seems as if my fans would love them, too."

“I really would like to thank all my fans who keep their fingers crossed for my plans for all the positive feedback. It's incredible how much support I get from all over the world in these days.

"It almost feels like as if a flush of positive energy is coming over me. Compliments to all of you!"

Ferrari has hit out at Williams over its attempts to block Schumacher testing this year’s car ahead of the upcoming European Grand Prix.

“Guess who opposed the test with the F60? A team that hasn't won anything for years and yet didn't pass over the opportunity to demonstrate once more a lack of spirit of fair play,” read a Ferrari statement.